Peeking inside and out (December 4, 2009)

By overlaying and fading from one SOHO image to another (taken at about the same time), we can reveal and
compare different details of two active regions captured at different wavelengths (Nov. 26, 2009). The
still image shows a composite of a magnetic image (black and white) of the Sun's surface with a UV light
image (blue and white) that reveals matter above the Sun's surface. In the video clip we move through
three layers. In the first image taken in extreme UV wavelength of light we can see two active regions
(lighter areas) near the Sun's surface at the upper right. We then fade into a magnetic image of the Sun
(called a magnetogram), in which the same active regions appear as patches of black and white. These
represent the north and south polarities of the region. Lastly, another extreme UV image shows charged
particles tracing magnetic field lines above the active regions.

Scientists use these images and data
from SOHO and other missions observing the Sun to tease out how the secrets of the Sun.

SOHO began its Weekly Pick some time after
sending a weekly image or video clip to the American Museum of Natural
History (Rose Center) in New York City. There, the SOHO Weekly Pick is
displayed with some annotations on a large plasma display.

If your institution would also like to receive the same Weekly Pick from us
for display (usually in Photoshop or QuickTime format), please send
your inquiry to steele.hill@gsfc.nasa.gov.